Okane

For Californians with a discerning taste for truly fresh and artfully prepared Japanese cuisine, Okane in San Francisco stands out as a remarkable destination. More than just a sushi restaurant, Okane, part of the esteemed Omakase Restaurant Group, offers a delightful blend of refined sushi and comforting Japanese dishes in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Locals and visitors alike are consistently impressed by the quality of fish, much of it imported directly from Japan, and the attentive service that makes every dining experience feel special. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply craving top-tier sushi, Okane promises a culinary journey that delights the senses.

Okane is conveniently located at 669 Townsend St, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA. This prime address places it within the bustling SOMA (South of Market) district of San Francisco, an area known for its vibrant mix of tech companies, creative businesses, and residential spaces. Its proximity to major thoroughfares makes it relatively accessible for those driving, though street parking in SOMA can be challenging. However, there are several paid parking garages and lots within walking distance (such as those managed by ABM Parking or SpotHero), offering options for those who prefer to drive.

For those relying on public transportation, Okane is well-served by various MUNI bus lines in the SOMA area. Its location also offers reasonable access from Caltrain's 4th and King Street station for commuters from the Peninsula, making it a convenient choice for after-work dinners. The restaurant's position near its Michelin-starred sister restaurant, Omakase, creates a culinary hub in this part of Townsend Street, drawing in food enthusiasts.

Okane offers a comprehensive menu that balances exquisite sushi with a range of satisfying traditional Japanese comfort foods, all prepared with high-quality ingredients.

• Premium Sushi and Sashimi: Okane is particularly celebrated for its sushi, with fish often imported directly from Tokyo's renowned Toyosu Fish Market. Their menu features a wide selection of nigiri (including popular cuts like Bluefin Tuna, Salmon, Yellowtail, and specialty items like A5 Wagyu and Hokkaido Sea Urchin) and sashimi.
• Creative and Classic Sushi Rolls: The restaurant offers an extensive list of Maki Sushi, from classic options like California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, and Salmon Avocado Roll, to more unique and popular creations. Highlights mentioned by customers include the "Rainbow Roll" and the "Townsend Roll" (spicy tuna, asparagus tempura, yellowfin, shiso, tobiko). The "Roppongi Roll," wrapped in cucumber, is also a notable option.
• Delicious Small Plates and Appetizers: To complement the sushi, Okane features a variety of compelling small plates. Favorites include the "chicken kaarage" (crispy Japanese fried chicken), crispy rice with spicy tuna, hamachi crudo, agedashi tofu, and a selection of gyoza and tempura.
• Hearty Large Dishes: Beyond sushi and small plates, Okane offers a selection of larger, comforting Japanese dishes. These can include items like Mentaiko Udon (spicy mentaiko, ikura, uni), Kakuni (slow-braised pork belly), Saba Shioyaki (grilled mackerel), Torikatsu (panko-crusted chicken cutlet), and Beef Sukiyaki.
• Omakase (Chef's Choice) Option: For those seeking a curated tasting experience, Okane offers a 10 PC Nigiri Omakase, where the sushi master selects the freshest fish of the day. This is a popular choice for experiencing the full breadth of the chef's skill and the quality of the ingredients. They also offer special Omakase offerings for groups of 9 or more with private reservations.
• Exceptional Beverage Program: To perfectly pair with the food, Okane boasts a comprehensive menu of sake (including Junmai, Ginjo, and Daiginjo selections), wine (sparkling, white, and red), and Japanese beers (including craft favorite Hitachino and classic Sapporo on draft).
• Dine-In Experience: The restaurant offers a "romantic," "intimate," and "cozy" dine-in atmosphere, suitable for various occasions. Sitting at the sushi bar provides an "experiential element" as you can watch the sushi chefs at work, who are described as "mesmerizing to watch" and "friendly."
• Takeout and Delivery: For convenience, Okane also offers takeout and delivery services, allowing customers to enjoy their high-quality Japanese cuisine from the comfort of their homes.

Okane's distinctiveness and high regard among locals come from several remarkable features:

• Fish Imported Directly from Japan: A key highlight is their commitment to quality, with fish sourced directly from Tokyo's world-renowned Toyosu Fish Market. This ensures an exceptional level of freshness and authenticity.
• Artistic and Meticulous Preparation: The sushi chefs are praised for their delicate preparation, with each item "beautifully arranged like a piece of art." This attention to detail elevates the dining experience beyond just taste.
• Intimate and Welcoming Ambiance: Described as a "romantic lil sushi spot" with a "very intimate and cozy" feel, Okane creates a comfortable and inviting environment. The staff and sushi chefs are consistently noted as "attentive and welcoming" and "friendly."
• Reasonable Pricing for High Quality (for SF): Customers highlight that despite the top-notch quality and imported fish, the prices "felt very reasonable (for SF, of course)," offering excellent value for the culinary experience received.
• Interactive Sushi Bar Experience: Sitting at the sushi bar is a highly recommended feature, allowing diners to "watch the sushi master delicately prepare each item" and engage in conversation with the chefs, answering questions and offering recommendations.
• Complimentary Touches: Guests have been delighted by unexpected gestures like "complimentary yuzu sake and a gold-dusted strawberry matcha dessert," showcasing the restaurant's commitment to guest satisfaction.
• Diverse Menu Beyond Just Sushi: While sushi is a star, the menu’s breadth, including popular items like chicken karaage, various rolls, udon, and larger cooked dishes, ensures there’s something for everyone in a group.

While specific, regularly advertised promotions like happy hour might not be the primary focus of a restaurant like Okane, their commitment to the customer experience manifests in other ways:

• Complimentary Offerings: As noted in reviews, Okane sometimes provides complimentary items, such as yuzu sake or a special dessert. These unexpected gestures enhance the dining experience and serve as a delightful "special offer" to patrons.
• Omakase Value: The 10 PC Nigiri Omakase, priced at $59.00, offers a curated selection of chef's freshest fish, which can represent excellent value for the quality and variety provided in a fixed-price tasting menu.
• Group Omakase Offerings: For larger parties of 9 or more, Okane offers special omakase packages with private reservations. This is a unique offering for celebrations or corporate events.

For the most current information on menu specials, seasonal items, or any specific group packages, it is always recommended to contact Okane directly via phone or visit their official website.

To experience the culinary excellence of Okane, here’s how you can connect with them:

Address: 669 Townsend St, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA

Phone: (415) 865-9788

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend evenings or special occasions, to ensure you can enjoy this popular spot. You can typically book online via their website or platforms like OpenTable.

Okane is an exceptionally suitable choice for California locals, particularly those in the San Francisco Bay Area, who appreciate high-quality Japanese cuisine in a refined yet comfortable setting. Its core appeal lies in the consistent delivery of "absolutely amazing" food with fish imported directly from Japan, ensuring a freshness and authenticity that stands out even in a city known for its diverse culinary scene. For local sushi enthusiasts, the ability to walk away "feeling absolutely full" after spending a "very reasonable" amount (for San Francisco standards) is a significant draw, offering exceptional value for the quality received.

The "romantic lil sushi spot" ambiance makes it perfect for date nights or intimate celebrations, while the "attentive and welcoming staff" ensure a pleasant experience whether you're a first-time visitor or a returning regular. The engaging interaction with the "mesmerizing" sushi chefs at the counter provides an experiential element that transforms a meal into a memorable event. Even with a minor note about the automatic gratuity policy for parties under six, the overwhelming sentiment is one of satisfaction and a strong desire to return. For San Franciscans seeking a consistently excellent, welcoming, and high-value sushi experience, Okane on Townsend Street is undoubtedly a local treasure.

Okane

669 Townsend St, San Francisco, CA 94103, USA